Drakesbrook Wier cleared again of deadly naegleria fowleri amoeba after further water testing

A popular WA swimming spot has been reopened after the potential presence of a brain-eating amoeba was ruled out for the second time this summer. The Shire of Waroona were forced to close Drakesbrook Weir again earlier this month after amoeba of the same family as the deadly naegleria fowleri was detected in water testing. The council received the all clear on Tuesday, but is encouraging swimmers to exercise care. It is the third time a swimming spot had been closed in the region this summer, with Brunswick Pool being closed for a period in early January. The Department of Health has previously warned the amoeba thrives in warmer water and with the recent hot weather its presence is a possibility in any natural water source. If thrust up the nose, the amoeba can cause a disease called amoebic meningitis, which caused inflammation and the destruction of brain tissue. For more information about amoebic meningitis and precautionary measures visit healthywa.wa.gov.au.